Andela was launched to combat the global technical talent shortage by building distributed engineering teams.
We do this by investing in Africa’s most talented software engineers.
As a country director, I have the overall responsibility for leadership and management of the organisation in Kenya (across departments) to achieve Andela’s mission and objectives.
My current focus and that of the company is the “Power of X” Campaign. This campaign is part of Andela’s focus of recruiting engineers of mid-level (two years’ experience) and senior level (4 years plus experience), as we scale our operations and meet the growing demand for tech talent across the globe.
We’re excited to open up our hiring funnel and enhance our talent pool.
It comes at a time when companies all over the world are looking to grow their technology teams via distributed work forces.
I have always been an early riser. Not surprisingly, it also gives me the opportunity to get some quiet time before the chores and daily tasks kick into full gear.
I prefer quiet mornings that allow for reflection and for me to plan out my day.
I start out with a cup of tea, then address routine tasks such as replying to emails and responding to slack messages.
As the day progresses, I attend a couple of meetings and one-to-one sessions. To avoid my meetings from taking over my day. I have work blocs on my calendar that enable me to get some work done and also have impromptu interactions with colleagues.
The potential to do more and positively impact others motivates me to go to work every day. It is also an opportunity to interact with different people with varied mindsets and get challenged continuously.
My family keeps me sane. Simple messages such as happy Monday, good morning or just WhatsApp messages full of emojis can put a smile on my face.
My proudest achievements thus far? Is there a single answer to this question? I do not think so. Having worked in the ICT sector almost all of my professional life, I have been involved in projects that have changed the telecommunication terrain, such as the launch of Zuku Satellite in East Africa.
I’ve also been a part of the team that provides the largest public WiFi network in East Africa – BRCK, and of course my current role at Andela.
Scaling culture as we scale operations is a challenge I face. I tackle this by continuously striving for excellence in how we communicate in our culture and ensuring we’re meeting market demands.
The best career advice I’ve ever received, and also the one I’d give, is to always work yourself out of a job. Go out there and coach, mentor and grow tomorrow’s leaders.
I’m the kind of person who prefers delegating work to my team, as I work with them to hone their strengths. I believe in giving each person a chance to do what they do best and create a synergy between team members.
One of the values anchoring our business at Andela is collaboration; we describe this as knowing that the whole is greater than the sum of our parts.
Believe in something, then stand firm in what you believe in. This gives you clarity as you go through challenges. I stand for persistence, hard work, and never taking shortcuts.
Don’t be afraid to try new things. That nervousness you feel when trying something new means you are growing.
The first thing I do when I get home is to enjoy a good cup of tea. I catch up with family over dinner then settle in for a good movie, series or just talk! I’m currently watching The Enemy Within and Friends.
Outside work, I love spending time out with family in Naromoru, far from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The place is scenic, not forgetting fresh air. I also tinker with gardening. Though I am not an avid reader, a good book will keep me turning pages.
I’m currently reading Seasons of Hope by David Musila and The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni.
